Is the beach your happy place? Ours, too.
From the vast coastal vistas to the salty sea air to the coconut smell of sunscreen, we’ll happily clean sand off our cameras for any opportunity to shoot at the beach. There’s no better place to fall in love with photography all over again.
Just in time for your next beach getaway, we asked 15 pro photographers and style-makers to share what they pack when they head to the beach.
Photo Gear
Jen Huang recommends:
Large Photo Reflector, $13.39
“Great photo accessory to have for that strong beach sun.”
Marcie Reif recommends:
Camera Cleaning Kit, $8.99
“On a beach shoot I try to be as careful as I can but I also know that sand will get on my camera. The cleaning pen and air blower remove all the sand from my camera and lenses. I love these easy, lightweight tools to clean up my gear.”
Meg Loeks recommends:
Holdfast Gear Money Maker Camera Strap, $230
“I finally found a camera strap that I love. It’s stylish and comfortable. Most importantly, I’m able to carry two cameras at the same time which is huge since I shoot with prime lenses.”
Catherine Lubbat recommends:
Manfrotto BeFree Aluminium Tripod, $179.99
“I love this tripod because it is super light and portable. I don’t shoot with a tripod very often because they are often cumbersome to carry but this tripod is steady and easy to fold up for travel. It’s a must for time-lapse photography of sunsets to include in my travel videos.”
Ashley Berrie recommends:
Ewa-Marine Underwater Camera Housing, $385.60
“My friend Marcie Reif told me about this underwater case for my DSLR and I have had so much fun with it all summer long. I have used it in the ocean and in pools, but on long beach days it protects my camera from getting wet in my beach bag.”
Travel Gear
Chloe Ramirez recommends:
Ban.Do Rough Draft Notebook, $16
“I need a notebook for writing notes during classes at photo conferences. I love this one by Ban.do. The “You’re Straight Up Magic” affirmation in the middle pairs perfectly with my good vibe photography gal pals.”
Emma Wood recommends:
Young Living Essential Oils, $13.49 and up
“I’ve used these for years now, for stress relief and sleeping aids to household cleaning. I always pack a few bottles of my essentials when I travel. I can’t do without Lavender, Thieves, Valor, and Peppermint.”
Kimberly Murray recommends:
Moleskine Notebook, $14.95
“Almost of my notebooks are Moleskine. The paper is smooth, allowing my pen to flow over the page, and the covers are sturdy. With so many sizes, colors, and designs available, what’s not to love?”
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Ashley Berrie recommends:
YETI Ramber 30oz Tumbler, $34.99
“This mug will keep my coffee warm all morning long while I am shooting. At night, I may even put an adult beverage inside to head to the beach for a bonfire and walks along the ocean.”
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Emma Wood recommends:
Cacala Turkish Bath Towel, $22.90
“I know, it sounds crazy to bring my own towels to a hotel. But trust me, these are lightweight and take up hardly any space in my suitcase. They absorb loads of water and dry much quicker than a conventional towel. They also come in many different colors and look gorgeous.”
Cameras & Lenses
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Marcie Reif recommends:
Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8, $1,199
“I can’t live without this amazing lens let alone leave it behind on a beach trip! The focal length fits perfectly into my style, both for those wide angle creative shots and close-up detail shots. I am completely in love with the images this lens produces and the flexibility it allows me.”
Kristin Dokoza recommends:
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L, $1,949
“I have admired Florida beach photo shares on Clickin Moms for years now! I am beyond excited to finally get to shoot at the beach in Florida at Click Away 2018. Those sherbet colored skies are calling my name.”
Elise Meader recommends:
Fujifilm Instax Mini 8, $54.08
“I like to bust out my Instax Mini 8 for little snapshots of all the new friends I get to meet at photo conferences and shooting getaways!”
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Emma Wood recommends:
GoPro HERO5, $399
“Not only do I love this gadget for video, but also stills. It’s tiny, takes great quality pictures and has voice control – love that feature! When I have this in my bag I know I have all bases covered, even without any other camera equipment.”
Antonieta Esis recommends:
Canon EOS 5D Mark III, $1,199
“My camera is the first thing that will go in my bag so I can document my trip from start to finish!”
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Elise Meader recommends:
Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.4G Lens, $1,696.95
“Ever since I got this lens I cannot put it down. Enough said.”
Twyla Jones recommends:
Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Camera, $598
“After losing a Nikon D750 to the ocean this summer, I finally caved and invested in an underwater system. I had been looking for something smaller to carry around while I travel and the Sony a6000 was the perfect choice. I use a Neewer waterproof case and now I don’t have to worry about getting knocked over by waves in the ocean anymore. The low price point made this the perfect system to learn more about underwater photography.”
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Marcie Reif recommends:
Lensbaby Velvet 85 Lens, $499.95
“I am obsessed with the way this lens renders light and the texture it gives my beach images. I love it for portraits of my kids or capturing movement and play time in the waves.”
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Catherine Lubbat recommends:
Sony 16-35mm f/4 Lens, $1,348
“I will pack my Sony 16-35mm f/4 lens for recording video. I love the super wide view of this lens and it makes for the dreamiest landscapes (especially in a beach setting at sunset). I am able to capture the whole scene, yet it has the ability to zoom to 35mm and if I am close enough to my subject, I can get some pretty nice bokeh. It is a very versatile lens for filmmaking.”
Michelle Turner recommends:
Fujifilm X100F, $1,299
“This camera is the perfect walk-around camera. It’s lightweight and super portable, but it also produces beautiful files worthy of any portfolio. Add in its mobile capabilities, and you have an absolutely amazing camera in a compact package.”
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Kristin Dokoza recommends:
Havana Underwater Camera, $24
“Oh, I can imagine having lots of fun with this camera at the pool. Pool party!”
Shalonda Chaddock recommends:
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L, $1,749
“I love my Canon 24-70L paired with my Mark IV. It is my favorite combo for beach shooting!”
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Marcie Reif recommends:
Composer Pro II with Sweet 35 Optic, $349.95
“The beach is my favorite place to play with my Lensbaby Composer Pro II with Sweet 35. I feel like my creativity flies and I always come home with a new favorite image of my kids.”
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Meg Loeks recommends:
Pentax ME 35mm Film Camera, $122 and up
“This camera is what I started out with years ago when I became interested in photography. I love to occasionally shoot film, especially in harsh light.”
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Michelle Turner recommends:
Fujifilm 56mm f/1.2 Lens, $999
“This is one of the best lenses that I’ve ever shot with. It’s quick to focus, lightweight, and oh-so-sharp, plus it’s capable of producing beautiful images with dreamy bokeh. It’s a must-have lens in my bag, and I can’t wait to use it on Amelia Island for Click Away 2018.”
Accessories
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Jen Huang recommends:
Ultrabraid X Large Brim Hat, $33.95
“This great hat keeps me cool by the pool, and I also use it as a fun prop for my beach photo shoots.”
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Twyla Jones recommends:
Zerouv Aviator Sunglasses, $9.99
“I’m a huge fan of aviators. I’m also a little forgetful and not very careful. These aviators are perfect for me because they are inexpensive, great quality, and I can order them in threes.”
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Kimberly Murray recommends:
Crafts & Love Jewelry, $28 and up
“I love to support local artists whenever I can, and Courtney at Crafts and Love is one of my favorite Atlanta designers. Whenever I travel, I always have at least two of her handcrafted pieces with me (typically earrings and a bracelet). I love that I can throw them on with jeans or a cute dress and immediately feel more stylish, but in an effortless way.”
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Kristin Dokoza recommends:
Striped Convertible Scarf, $39.99
“When I’m flying I tend to get hot from the stress of getting through security and into my seat on the plane. But once I’m settled I get cold. I like to pack a light scarf that will double as a blanket while I’m flying, and this one is brilliant. Perfect for the flight, cute accessory for the evenings, plus a cover-up at the pool.”
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Meg Loeks recommends:
Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Sunglasses, $168
“Last year I finally bought myself a pair of nice sunglasses. They are light, comfortable and offer real protection from the sun.”
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Elise Meader recommends:
Woodgrain Watch, $139 and up
“I always travel with my Woodgrain watch so that I don’t have to stare at my phone all weekend and can be in the moment.”
Brittany Blake recommends:
Studio Tie-Back Headband, $23
“I’m all about comfort. Hair up in a messy bun with a StrawRev tie-back is my go-to, along with yoga pants and a slouchy tee. The tie-backs stay in place better than any headband I’ve ever tried.”
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Twyla Jones recommends:
Pestemal Beach Towel, $33.99
“My colorful pestemal beach towels are lightweight, stylish, and perfect in every way. They photograph well and make a great prop for a child running around on the beach or when the kids get wrapped up for snuggling. They also make great lightweight throws.”
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Chloe Ramirez recommends:
Skylar Half-Frame Sunglasses, $10
“I need my Urban Outfitter Sunglasses for the sunshine. Bring on the vacation!
Bags & Luggage
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Marcie Reif recommends:
Canon Deluxe Back Pack 200EG, $60
“This camera bag always comes with me to the beach. My gear stays safe from heat, water, and sand while I’m off playing in the waves and running along the shore.”
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Kristin Dokoza recommends:
Away The Bigger Carry-On, $245
“I have a confession: I over pack when I travel. It’s so hard to know what the weather will be or what I will feel like wearing. A girl needs options! I’m obsessed with my Away luggage. I have the bigger carry-on size which helps keep my items organized, fits easily in the overhead bin, and is not heavy. Travel tip: If you mark your bag as fragile, it will most likely be loaded on top of other luggage. This also means it will be first off at baggage claim.”
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Chloe Ramirez recommends:
Madewell Transport Tote, $168
“My Madewell Transport Leather Tote is the perfect bag for a getaway or conference. I have the brown leather and it goes with any outfit.”
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Meg Loeks recommends:
National Geographic Walkabout Rucksack, $240
“I love this camera bag so much that I keep replacing it once it starts to wear and tear (only after several years of not-so-gentle use). It fits a lot of gear and most importantly is super comfortable.”
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Kimberly Murray recommends:
Kelly Moore The Jude, $299
“I take this camera bag with me whenever I shoot on location. It has the utility of a Swiss Army Knife while being very chic; it is an all-in-one bag that is not at all cumbersome. The multiple compartments and roomy interior allow me to carry all of my favorite camera gear (e.g., Canon 5D Mark III, 50mm f/1.2, 35mm f/1.4), my laptop, tethering tools, and personal items. I’m able to keep everything that I need at my fingertips.”
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Brittany Blake recommends:
Think Tank TurnStyle 20 Sling Camera Bag, $94.95
“I never thought I’d fall for a practical camera bag, but this bag is everything I need for a shoot and perfect for travel. I can fit my camera body with 24-70mm lens attached, my 105mm 1.4 portrait lens, and my 35. I can throw accessories, an iPad, and essentials like my wallet and phone in the front pockets. The best part is that I can leave the bag on my back for outdoor shoots and swing it around to change my lenses.”
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Michelle Turner recommends:
Ona The Bowery, $149
“I’ve owned so many bags, and many of them have either looked like camera bags (read: lacked style), they haven’t been practical for travel, or they’ve fallen apart. This bag, however, is the perfect bag! Stylish (I just love gray waxed canvas with leather trim), practical for airline travel, and so sturdy. It’s one of my favorites.”
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Elise Meader recommends:
Nena & Co Convertible Day Bag, $298
“I placed a camera insert in this Nena & Co. bag and it’s the best camera bag I’ve ever had. When I’m not shooting, I can take the camera insert out and it’s a regular day bag. Since I’m often toting a baby, it’s also the perfect diaper bag.”
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Kimberly Murray recommends:
Bric’s Bellagio 2.0 Ultra Light Carry On, $308
“This is the prettiest travel suitcase. It’s a sturdy and easy carry-on that travels with me every time.”
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Kristin Dokoza recommends:
Phone Cross Body Bag, $122.50
“It’s no secret that I love to shoot with my iPhone. This cute cross body will hold my phone, note cards and pen. Super easy access to what I need while keeping my hands free, plus nothing heavy on my shoulder.”
Clothing
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Jen Huang recommends:
Minibee Summer Solid Color Dress, $35-$56
“I live in linen and this dress has pockets!”
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Shalonda Chaddock recommends:
Albion Swimsuit, $64-$128
“I own three Albion Fit Swimsuits. These suits keeps everything in its place, show the right amount of skin for my “mom bod” and are made from thick material. I have climbed a waterfall in Jamaica, laid on the beach in Grand Cayman, and snorkeled the Caribbean waters in these suites and they are still in perfect condition.”
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Kristin Dokoza recommends:
Azalea Robe Kimono, $98
“I’m a big fan of this kimono. Dress it up or go casual. It’s so light and I love the colors, perfect for dinner or drinks out.”
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Antonieta Esis recommends:
Coffee & Cameras Tee, $28
“I bought this shirt in Seattle during Click Away 2016. It’s my favorite. So soft!
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Kimberly Murray recommends:
Madewell Stripe-Mix Shirtdress, $69.99
“Easy dresses are a staple in my wardrobe, and this is one of my favorites. It is comfortable and makes me feel pulled together without looking like I’m trying too hard. The fact that the color is called Ocean Storm makes it perfect for Click Away…although I hope there are nothing but clear skies ahead!”
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Marcie Reif recommends:
Calvin Klein Mesh Cover Up, $78
“I found my favorite cover up this season. When I’m chasing fast little subjects around the beach I don’t want to worry that my bathing suit is a tangled mess and not covering me up like I think. This cover up has me feeling comfortable and cool on the beach.”
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Shalonda Chaddock recommends:
Josie Jersey Pajamas, $68
“I love these pajamas because they are soft and comfy. They are cute enough to room hop and hang out with friends on a girls’ trip!”
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Kristin Dokoza recommends:
Willa Tie-Waste Jumpsuit, $118
“This jumpsuit is super cute for a party. Easy to pack and has pockets.”
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Chloe Ramirez recommends:
Kate Spade Marina Piccola Swimsuit, $150
“Swimsuit! Because RESORT. I love this vintage looking swimsuit by Kate Spade.”
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Shalonda Chaddock recommends:
American Eagle Midi Short, $24.97
“My beach shooting uniform consists of my American Eagle cut off shorts and a white t-shirt. These shorts have a nice bit of stretch for the crazy positions we assume when we shoot. I especially love the midi style cut offs because they aren’t too short and aren’t too long.”
Tech
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Elise Meader recommends:
Apple MacBook Pro, $1,299 and up
“My MacBook Pro is a must so I can edit photos as the events unfold.”
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Emma Wood recommends:
Amazon Kindle Oasis, $289.99
“I’m so in love with this thing! I’ve owned a few different Kindle models but this one was a game changer for me. It fits and balances intuitively in one hand and is so lightweight that I hardly know I’m holding it. The backlight means that I can read in bed without disturbing the hubby and it also offers extra built-in charging time.”
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Ashley Berrie recommends:
JBL Flip 4 Waterproof Speaker, $92.05
“I will pack this waterproof speaker in my camera bag just like it’s another camera lens. It will play music straight from my phone to the speaker. I’ll use it while getting ready with my friends to go for a night out on the town or I’ll stick it in the basket on the front of my bicycle to listen to while cruising around the bike trails.”
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Catherine Lubbat recommends:
Lifeproof Waterproof iPhone Case, $46.14
“With my Lifeproof case, I never have to worry about sand getting into the phone speakers. I can jump in the water with my phone at any given moment and be able to not only take pictures, but also record videos. I will include these underwater videos with the other videos that I take on my Sony camera to add some cool shots to my films. I always have my phone with me so I’m able to snap pictures or video on it at any given moment.”
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Antonieta Esis recommends:
Apple iPhone 7, $699 and up
“When I’m away from home for a few days for a photo trip, my cell phone lets me communicate with my husband and boys. It’s also my second camera when I do not have my big camera on hand.”
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Emma Wood recommends:
Moment iPhone Case, $29.99
This case protects my iPhone 7 Plus brilliantly and it enables me to twist the lens right onto the case. I use this wide angle lens for so many of my iPhone images; I love that you can include more of the surroundings and it’s fantastic in small spaces too. These are the best quality lenses I’ve used with my iPhone.”
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Emma Wood recommends:
Sudio Sweden Wireless Headphones, $99
“My Sudio Sweden headphones are wireless and amazing.”
Shoes
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Jen Huang recommends:
Keds Crashback Leather Sneakers, $36.99-$65
“A casual shoe that takes it up a notch with cognac leather, it’s also what I also wear to shoot weddings.”
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Kristin Dokoza recommends:
Gizeh Birkenstock, $95
“I am on my feet a lot on photo trips and at conferences, but I still want to look cute. I have these in soft pink color, but might need to get the white so they go with everything.”
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Kristin Dokoza recommends:
Maliparmi Beaded Circus Slingback, $149.95
“For a splurge sandal, I love the details and comfortable foot bed for walking. Definitely a fun statement sandal.”
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Brittany Blake recommends:
Bed Stu Soto Sandal, $124.95
“This is THE sandal for me. I’m in love with the versatility of them. I can go from jean shorts and a t-shirt to a casual dress and know that the shoes work for it all. I love to pack light on trips, and this pair of sandals helps me with that goal.”
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Ashley Berrie recommends:
Havaianas Flip Flops, $24 and up
“These are my most comfortable flip flops. I will be kicking these Havaianas off at the end of every long day of shooting.”
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Antonieta Esis recommends:
Mayari Birkenstock, $125
“I could be in Cleveland mid-winter or on Amelia Island in February for Click Away. Not a tough choice! I’ll be there wearing these sandals.”
Personal Care
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Ashley Berrie recommends:
Hoffman’s Natural Organic Bug Spray, $10.99
“Bugs are a natural and critical part of ecosystems. I won’t let the bugs stop me from getting the shot though! I will spray some of this on and be good to go all day long.”
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Catherine Lubbat recommends:
Beauty Counter Protect Stick Sunscreen, $18
“I adore this sunscreen. I have used various ones in the past on my children and me, but Beauty Counter has been the only one that doesn’t cause skin irritation or burning to the eyes when we get in the water. The stick is a family favorite and I will pack this so I can be safe in the sun while on the beach.”
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Kimberly Murray recommends:
Ouidad PlayCurl Amplifying Foam, $26
“My naturally curly hair gets frizzy very easily. My go-to product to create defined curls is Ouidad’s PlayCurl Curl Amplifying Foam. It takes me only about a minute to apply it to my hair, making my morning routine pretty much a wash-and-go one. With products for a variety of curl types, Ouidad has certainly earned the name of The Curl Expert.”
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Antonieta Esis recommends:
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment, $24
“I’m never without my beloved lip balm. Rosé is my color.”
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Brittany Blake recommends:
Shani Darden Control Corrective Sunscreen, $33
“I couldn’t live without this product! I use it year-round, but it’s a staple for the beach, too. It is lightweight and can be worn under makeup. I’m all about protecting my skin and this is one thing that never misses a trip.”
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Michelle Turner recommends:
Kypris Pot of Shade: Heliotropic, $68
“I love the entire Kypris line, but their sunscreen is one of my favorites. Kypris is a company with a conscience, and I love supporting them. Beyond that, they produce one of my favorite non-toxic skincare lines. So many “natural” sunscreens leave you too chalky (or aren’t really good for your skin at all), but this one is fabulous.”
Are you interested in joining other like-minded creatives for a weekend getaway to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world this coming February?
Want to learn from the best of the best?
Join these 15 photographers plus 56 more at Click Away 2018 on Amelia Island, Florida. Trust us, you don’t want to miss it.
